Choosing the right VPN can be overwhelming, with countless options claiming to be the best. This guide compares Radmin VPN, NordVPN, and ProtonVPN across critical factors such as security, speed, privacy, streaming, gaming, and pricing in an in-depth, three-part series.

By the end, you’ll know which VPN is best for your needs and why one might be better suited for privacy-focused users, while another may be the superior choice for gaming, streaming, or affordability.

Table of Contents

Quick Comparison Table (Radmin VPN vs NordVPN vs ProtonVPN)

Aspect	Radmin VPN (Free LAN VPN)	NordVPN (Premium VPN)	ProtonVPN (Privacy VPN)
Encryption & Security	AES-256 encryption within LAN only; No kill switch, no IP masking. Primarily secures data between connected LAN devices.	AES-256 (OpenVPN/IKEv2) or ChaCha20 (NordLynx WireGuard); Kill switch on all major apps; advanced features like Double VPN and Obfuscated servers. Servers run on RAM-only (no persistent data).	AES-256 (OpenVPN/IKEv2) or ChaCha20 (WireGuard); Kill switch available; Secure Core multi-hop routing and Tor over VPN servers. All apps are open-source for transparency.
Privacy & Logging	No-logs policy (no logging of IP or activity), but does not hide your public IP or route general internet traffic. Jurisdiction: N/A (peer-to-peer service).	No-logs policy (independently audited multiple times). Based in Panama (outside 5/9/14 Eyes alliances). Strong track record on privacy.	No-logs policy (independently audited). Based in Switzerland (strong privacy laws, outside 14 Eyes). History of defending user privacy (same org behind ProtonMail).
Server Network	No global servers – creates direct peer-to-peer networks instead. Cannot change virtual location (users appear with their real IP to peers).	~5,500–7,100 servers in 60+ countries (recently expanded to over 118 countries). High server density reduces crowding, many specialty servers (P2P, Onion, etc.).	~8,000+ servers in 100+ countries (massive growth in 2024). Plus plan servers span 112+ countries, now rivaling or exceeding Nord’s coverage.
Speed Performance	Capped at 100 Mbps within virtual LANs. No impact on regular internet speed since it doesn’t reroute external traffic. Latency depends on peer distance (aim for <85 ms ping for gaming).	Excellent speeds – among the fastest. In 2025 tests on a 1 Gbps line, NordVPN hit 892 Mbps (Seattle) and 849 Mbps (New York). Low latency overhead (~29% ping increase), suitable for HD/4K streaming and fast downloads.	Very good speeds, but slightly behind NordVPN in most cases. ProtonVPN reached ~698 Mbps (Seattle) and 524 Mbps (New York) in the same tests. Ping impact ~30% (virtually tied with Nord). Secure Core (multi-hop) connections are much slower (~126 Mbps) due to extra encryption hops.
Streaming Support	Not designed for streaming – cannot unblock Netflix or other geo-blocked content (does not change your visible IP).	Outstanding – reliably unblocks Netflix, Hulu, BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and more. Supports streaming on all servers with SmartPlay DNS for devices. Consistently delivers lag-free HD/4K streaming thanks to its speed.	Good – ProtonVPN (Plus plan) can access Netflix (including various libraries) and other services like HBO Max and Disney+. However, it’s slightly more limited than NordVPN for streaming. Requires using designated “Plus” streaming servers for best results. No Smart DNS feature for consoles/TVs.
Gaming (Online)	Great for LAN parties and old games – simulates local network play for titles that lack online multiplayer. Not a traditional VPN for MMOs or public servers (no ping optimization to game servers).	Solid choice for online gaming. While a VPN typically adds a bit of ping, NordVPN’s vast network can sometimes improve routes and prevent ISP throttling. It offers DDoS protection by hiding your IP from other players.	Also viable for gaming. ProtonVPN’s speeds are stable and latency is on par with Nord. Protects against DDoS and IP exposure. Fewer specialty “gaming” features, but you can choose servers close to game servers. Free plan is not recommended for gaming due to limited speed and servers.
Platforms & Devices	Windows-only application. No native support for macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, or routers. You can install it on unlimited Windows PCs, but other devices are incompatible.	Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Android TV, plus browser extensions. Allows up to 6 simultaneous devices per account. User-friendly interface on all platforms – an interactive map and one-click connect make it very accessible.	Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS (also supports routers via manual setup). Generous 10 simultaneous devices allowed. Interface is feature-rich but can feel busy for newcomers. Offers profiles and advanced settings for power users.
Unique Features	Focused on virtual LAN features: options to remote-control PCs, share files, and chat over the LAN. Essentially a free replacement for Hamachi-like services. No typical VPN extras (no split tunneling, no multiple protocols).	Feature-packed: Multi-hop “Double VPN”, Onion over VPN (Tor nodes integration), Obfuscated servers to bypass VPN blocks, Threat Protection (ad/tracker/malware blocker), and even a Meshnet feature for linking devices in a personal encrypted LAN. Option for dedicated IP add-on.	Privacy-oriented extras: Secure Core (multi-hop through hardened servers), NetShield (malware/ad blocking), and built-in Tor over VPN for .onion sites. All client software is open source. Integrates with the Proton ecosystem (Mail, Drive, etc.) if you have Proton Unlimited. No option for dedicated IP.
Pricing & Plans	Free for all features (no paid plans at all). Completely unlimited usage at no cost. The only “price” is the limited scope of what it can do.	Paid only (no free tier). Standard plan: ~$12.99/month, or ~$3.39/month on a 2-year plan (billed ~$81). Also offers Plus/Complete bundles with password manager and cloud storage at higher prices. All plans have a 30-day money-back guarantee.	Free and Paid. Free plan: $0 forever (unlimited data, but restricted to a few servers in 3 countries and lower speeds, no streaming/P2P). Plus plan (VPN only): $9.99/month, or ~$4.99/month on 2-year plan (billed ~$120). There’s also Proton Unlimited bundle at ~$7.99/month (2-year) including ProtonMail, etc. 30-day money-back guarantee on paid plans.
Customer Support	Very limited. No live chat or direct email support available – users rely on an online FAQ/knowledge base. The official ticket system has been reported as unreliable. Essentially, community forums and self-help guides are the only recourse.	24/7 Live Chat support with fast, helpful responses. Also offers email support and a comprehensive help center. NordVPN’s support is highly accessible and responsive.	Email/ticket support for all users; live chat is available but only for paying customers and not 24/7. ProtonVPN’s support team is knowledgeable, but responses (especially via email) can take several hours or more. There is a detailed online knowledge base as well.

Security, Privacy & Performance

1. Security & Privacy

Security is the backbone of a reliable VPN. Encryption, logging policies, jurisdiction, and additional privacy features can make a significant difference in protecting your online activities. Below, we break down how Radmin VPN, NordVPN, and ProtonVPN compare in these crucial aspects.

🔹 Radmin VPN – Basic Encryption with No Internet Privacy

Radmin VPN primarily functions as a virtual LAN tool, meaning it does not offer the same level of security as a traditional VPN. While it does use AES-256 encryption, this only applies to connections within the virtual LAN, not your entire internet traffic. This means that your public IP remains exposed when browsing the web.

Additionally, Radmin VPN does not provide a kill switch, multiple protocol support, or DNS leak protection. While the company claims a no-logs policy, there is no independent audit to verify this, making it difficult to confirm how user data is handled.

Best for: Users who need LAN security but do not require full internet privacy.

🔹 NordVPN – The Most Secure and Private VPN

NordVPN is one of the most secure VPNs on the market, featuring industry-leading AES-256 encryption, plus the NordLynx protocol (a WireGuard-based technology designed for both speed and security).

It maintains a strict no-logs policy that has been independently audited multiple times. Since NordVPN is based in Panama, it operates outside the 5/9/14 Eyes intelligence-sharing alliances, which means no government can force it to hand over user data.

Additional security features include:

Kill Switch – Automatically disconnects your internet if the VPN drops to prevent data leaks.
Double VPN – Routes traffic through two servers for extra anonymity.
Obfuscated Servers – Useful for bypassing censorship in countries like China.
Threat Protection – Blocks malware, trackers, and phishing attempts.
RAM-only Servers – Ensures that no user data is stored permanently.

Best for: Users who want maximum security, privacy, and online anonymity.

🔹 ProtonVPN – Built for Privacy Enthusiasts

ProtonVPN is developed by the creators of ProtonMail, ensuring a privacy-first approach. It employs AES-256 encryption and supports multiple VPN protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard.

The service is based in Switzerland, a country known for its strong privacy laws. Like NordVPN, it follows a strict no-logs policy, which has been independently audited. What sets ProtonVPN apart is its Secure Core feature, which routes traffic through privacy-hardened servers in Switzerland, Iceland, or Sweden before reaching its final destination.

Additional privacy features include:

Tor over VPN – Allows easy access to the Tor network for extra anonymity.
Stealth Mode – Helps bypass VPN restrictions in heavily censored regions.
Open-source Applications – All apps are fully transparent and publicly auditable.

While ProtonVPN excels in privacy, its security features do not match NordVPN’s broad range of protections.

Best for: Users who prioritize privacy and transparency over everything else.

2. Speed & Performance

A VPN should not slow down your internet experience significantly. Let’s examine how these VPNs handle speed and latency.

🔹 Radmin VPN – Fast for LAN, Useless for General Internet Use

Because Radmin VPN is not a true internet VPN, it does not affect regular internet speed. However, it has a 100 Mbps speed cap within the LAN, which is sufficient for gaming but not suitable for large file transfers.

Latency: Since Radmin VPN relies on direct peer-to-peer connections, your ping depends entirely on the distance between connected users. It is best for players within the same region but ineffective for global multiplayer gaming.

Best for: Users who only need fast LAN connections for gaming or file sharing.

🔹 NordVPN – One of the Fastest VPNs

NordVPN is among the fastest VPNs available, thanks to its optimized NordLynx protocol. Recent tests show NordVPN reaching speeds of 800+ Mbps on a 1 Gbps internet connection.

Key performance highlights:

Minimal speed loss – One of the lowest latency overheads (~5-10 ms increase).
5,500+ servers in 60+ countries – Reduces overcrowding and ensures high-speed performance.
Optimized for streaming & gaming – Low ping and high bandwidth allow for lag-free online gaming and smooth 4K streaming.

Best for: Users who need a high-performance VPN for streaming, gaming, and downloading large files.

🔹 ProtonVPN – Fast, But Slower Than NordVPN

ProtonVPN delivers good performance, but it is slightly slower than NordVPN. It maxes out at 600+ Mbps, which is fast enough for most users but falls behind in direct comparisons.

Key performance aspects:

Secure Core servers slow things down – Routing through multiple secure locations causes speed drops.
8,000+ servers in 100+ countries – A massive expansion, but still not as optimized as NordVPN’s infrastructure.
Ping impact (~10-15ms overhead) – Acceptable for most tasks but slightly higher than NordVPN.

Best for: Users who value privacy over speed but still want a reasonably fast VPN.

Verdict: Best VPN for Security & Performance

Best for Privacy: ProtonVPN – Strongest privacy protections with Swiss jurisdiction and Secure Core technology.
Best for Speed & Performance: NordVPN – Fastest speeds with the most advanced security features.
Best for LAN Gaming: Radmin VPN – Great for virtual LAN gaming, but not a traditional VPN.

Streaming, Gaming & Features

With security and speed covered, it’s time to evaluate how well Radmin VPN, NordVPN, and ProtonVPN perform in real-world applications. Most users turn to VPNs for streaming restricted content, gaming with lower latency, and accessing advanced features like split tunneling, multi-hop connections, and dedicated IPs. This section examines how each VPN handles these scenarios.

For those looking for additional streaming options beyond VPNs, check out our guide on 29 Best 123Movies Alternatives in 2025, covering free and paid streaming sites that still work.

1. Streaming Performance – Which VPN Unblocks More Services?

A great VPN must consistently bypass geo-restrictions on popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, BBC iPlayer, and Amazon Prime Video. Many streaming services detect VPNs and block access, so only the best VPNs manage to stay ahead.

Radmin VPN – Useless for Streaming

Radmin VPN cannot bypass geo-restrictions because it lacks global servers. Unlike NordVPN and ProtonVPN, it does not assign you an IP from another country. Instead, it creates a virtual LAN, making your real IP address visible to the websites you visit. This means Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and other streaming services will detect your actual location and block region-restricted content.

While Radmin VPN is excellent for creating local multiplayer gaming connections, it does nothing for streaming enthusiasts. If your goal is accessing content from different regions, you’ll need a real VPN like NordVPN or ProtonVPN.

NordVPN – The Best Choice for Streaming

NordVPN is one of the best VPNs for unblocking streaming services, consistently outperforming competitors in bypassing geo-restrictions. It has an extensive 5,500+ server network across 60+ countries, allowing users to access different Netflix libraries, BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, HBO Max, and more.

Anime fans looking for reliable streaming platforms can explore our list of 9Anime Alternatives That Actually Work in 2025 to find the best free and paid anime streaming sites.

What Makes NordVPN the Best for Streaming?

SmartPlay DNS: NordVPN automatically bypasses VPN blocks on major streaming platforms without requiring additional setup.
Fast Speeds (800+ Mbps): Ensures 4K and HDR streaming without buffering.
Works on All Devices: NordVPN offers apps for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Smart TVs, Firestick, and routers, meaning you can use it on virtually any streaming device.
Multiple Servers for Popular Regions: If one server is blocked, you can easily switch to another.
No Data Caps: Unlike some VPNs that throttle bandwidth, NordVPN provides unlimited streaming at full speed.

In tests, NordVPN successfully unblocked Netflix US, UK, Japan, Germany, Canada, and more. It also worked flawlessly with BBC iPlayer, Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video, making it the best option for users who need a reliable streaming VPN.

ProtonVPN – A Solid Option, But Not as Reliable as NordVPN

ProtonVPN also supports streaming, but only if you’re using the Plus Plan. While ProtonVPN successfully unblocks Netflix and BBC iPlayer, it struggles with Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, requiring multiple attempts or server switches.

Key Features for Streaming:

Streaming-Optimized “Plus” Servers: Unlike NordVPN, ProtonVPN requires manual selection of specific streaming servers.
No Speed Throttling: With 600+ Mbps speeds, ProtonVPN is capable of streaming in 4K.
Privacy-Oriented: If you want both streaming and strong anonymity, ProtonVPN is a great choice.

However, ProtonVPN lacks SmartPlay DNS and doesn’t have as many global servers as NordVPN, making it slightly less reliable for streaming without interruptions.

Verdict: Best VPN for Streaming

Winner: NordVPN – Works with all major platforms, has SmartPlay DNS, and offers seamless 4K playback.
Runner-up: ProtonVPN – Good, but requires manual configuration and doesn’t unblock as many platforms as NordVPN.
Loser: Radmin VPN – Completely useless for streaming.

2. Gaming Performance – Low Ping & DDoS Protection

Gamers often use VPNs to reduce lag, protect against DDoS attacks, and access region-locked game servers. A good gaming VPN should offer low latency, fast speeds, and a large server network.

Radmin VPN – Ideal for LAN Gaming, But Not Online Multiplayer

Radmin VPN is built for LAN gaming. If you want to play Minecraft, Counter-Strike 1.6, or Age of Empires over a virtual LAN, Radmin VPN works flawlessly. However, it does not improve online gaming because:

It does not reroute your traffic through optimized servers.
It does not lower ping to global gaming servers.
It does not protect against DDoS attacks.

If you need a VPN to improve online gaming performance (e.g., reduce ping in Call of Duty, Fortnite, or Apex Legends), Radmin VPN is not the right choice.

NordVPN – The Best Gaming VPN

NordVPN is one of the best choices for online gaming, thanks to:

Low Latency (5-10ms Overhead): Minimal impact on ping, even when playing fast-paced shooters.
DDoS Protection: Prevents opponents from launching DDoS attacks against you.
5,500+ Servers in 60+ Countries: Connect to gaming servers in different regions to play in international lobbies.
Meshnet (Private Gaming Networks): Create secure private game networks with friends worldwide.

In gaming tests, NordVPN improved connection stability and prevented ISP throttling, making it an excellent VPN for competitive gamers.

ProtonVPN – Good for Privacy, But Slightly Higher Ping

ProtonVPN also supports gaming, but its ping is slightly higher than NordVPN due to its privacy-focused Secure Core feature. If you turn off Secure Core, ProtonVPN provides comparable speeds, but it does not offer dedicated gaming features like NordVPN’s Meshnet.

For casual gaming, ProtonVPN works well, but serious gamers will benefit more from NordVPN’s faster speeds and lower latency.

Verdict: Best VPN for Gaming

🥇 Winner: NordVPN – Best for low ping, DDoS protection, and gaming servers.
🥈 Runner-up: ProtonVPN – Decent speeds, but higher latency than NordVPN.
🎮 Niche Use: Radmin VPN – Great for LAN gaming, but useless for online multiplayer.

3. Features & Advanced Settings

Beyond streaming and gaming, users look for extra features like split tunneling, double VPN connections, ad-blocking, and dedicated IPs. Here’s how each VPN compares:

Radmin VPN – No Advanced Features

Radmin VPN offers no split tunneling, no kill switch, no encryption beyond LAN connections, and no ability to choose server locations. It’s a basic tool designed exclusively for LAN gaming.

NordVPN – Feature-Packed for Power Users

NordVPN is one of the most feature-rich VPNs, offering:

Split Tunneling – Choose which apps use the VPN and which don’t.
Double VPN – Encrypts traffic twice for added security.
Threat Protection – Blocks ads, trackers, and malware.
Dedicated IP Option – Get a static IP for business or gaming use.

NordVPN is a great all-in-one VPN because it includes features that enhance both security and usability.

ProtonVPN – Privacy-First, But Lacks Some Extras

ProtonVPN offers Secure Core (multi-hop routing), Tor over VPN, and NetShield (ad-blocker), but lacks dedicated IPs and double VPN servers. If privacy is your top priority, ProtonVPN is excellent, but it doesn’t have as many convenience-focused features as NordVPN.

Verdict: Best VPN for Features

🥇 Winner: NordVPN – Offers the most advanced settings, including Threat Protection, split tunneling, and dedicated IPs.
🥈 Runner-up: ProtonVPN – Strong privacy features, but lacks some usability features found in NordVPN.
❌ Loser: Radmin VPN – No extra features whatsoever.

So to summarize:

🏆 Best for Streaming: NordVPN
🎮 Best for Online Gaming: NordVPN
🔒 Best for Privacy: ProtonVPN
🎭 Best for LAN Gaming: Radmin VPN

Pricing, Customer Support & Final Verdict

1. Pricing Plans – Which VPN Offers the Best Value?

VPN pricing varies significantly based on features, subscription length, and whether a free tier is available. Here’s how Radmin VPN, NordVPN, and ProtonVPN compare in terms of cost and value.

Radmin VPN – Completely Free, But Very Limited

Radmin VPN is entirely free, making it attractive for users who need basic LAN gaming or virtual LAN networking. However, because it does not function as a traditional VPN for internet traffic, its “free” status comes with major limitations. There are no paid upgrades, which means no access to global VPN servers, IP masking, or security enhancements beyond local encryption.

Best for: Users who need a free virtual LAN for gaming or remote office connections.

NordVPN – Premium Features at a Competitive Price

NordVPN is a paid-only service, offering several pricing tiers:

Monthly Plan: $12.99/month (higher cost for flexibility).
1-Year Plan: $4.99/month (billed annually at $59.88).
2-Year Plan: $3.39/month (billed at $81.36 every two years) – best value.
Bundled Plans: NordVPN also offers NordPass (password manager) and NordLocker (encrypted storage) in higher-tier plans for an additional cost.

All plans come with a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing users to test the service risk-free. While the monthly price is high, NordVPN’s long-term plans offer significant savings, making it a great investment for users looking for premium security, speed, and streaming capabilities.

Best for: Users who want the best all-around VPN experience at a reasonable long-term cost.

ProtonVPN – Flexible Pricing with a Free Tier

ProtonVPN is one of the few reputable VPNs that offer a completely free version:

Free Plan: Unlimited data, but restricted to servers in 3 countries (US, Netherlands, Japan), with lower speeds and no streaming/P2P support.
Plus Plan: $9.99/month or $4.99/month on a 2-year plan (billed at $119.76 every two years) – includes full-speed servers, Secure Core, streaming access, and P2P support.
Proton Unlimited Plan: $7.99/month on a 2-year plan – includes ProtonMail, ProtonDrive, and other privacy tools.

ProtonVPN’s free tier is an excellent option for users who want privacy but cannot afford a paid service. However, to access its best features, upgrading to the Plus plan is necessary, and it’s slightly more expensive than NordVPN.

Best for: Privacy-conscious users who value transparency and a free tier but don’t mind paying more for enhanced features.

Verdict: Best Value VPN

Best Budget Option: Radmin VPN (Free) – But only useful for LAN networking.
Best Long-Term Value: NordVPN – Feature-packed at an affordable 2-year rate.
Best Privacy-Focused Plan: ProtonVPN – Free tier available, but paid plans cost slightly more.

2. Customer Support – Which VPN Helps You Faster?

Having reliable customer support is crucial, especially for users who need help with setup, troubleshooting, or account issues.

Radmin VPN – Minimal to No Support

Radmin VPN offers very limited support. There is no live chat, phone support, or direct email assistance. Instead, users must rely on an online FAQ section, which covers basic setup and troubleshooting but lacks depth.

Response Time: Slow to nonexistent – some users report unanswered support tickets.

NordVPN – 24/7 Live Chat and Fast Email Support

NordVPN provides one of the best support experiences in the industry, offering:

24/7 Live Chat – Get instant responses from trained support agents.
Email Support – Response within a few hours.
Comprehensive Help Center – Detailed guides for setup, troubleshooting, and advanced features.

NordVPN’s live chat ensures users get fast, professional help anytime, making it ideal for beginners and advanced users alike.

ProtonVPN – Knowledgeable Support, But Slower Response Times

ProtonVPN offers email and ticket-based support, but lacks 24/7 live chat for all users. While paying customers may get quicker responses, free users may experience delays.

Live Chat: Available, but only for paid users and during limited hours.
Support Articles: Extensive knowledge base with privacy-focused guides.
Email Support: Can take several hours to a day for a response.

Verdict: Best Customer Support

Winner: NordVPN – Fastest, most reliable 24/7 support.
Runner-up: ProtonVPN – Helpful, but slower response times and no 24/7 live chat.
Loser: Radmin VPN – Barely any customer support available.

Final Verdict: Which VPN Should You Choose?

Each VPN in this comparison serves a different audience. Your choice depends on what you prioritize most:

Best Overall VPN – NordVPN

If you want a VPN that excels in all areas – security, speed, streaming, and customer support, NordVPN is the clear winner. It offers:

Blazing-fast speeds (800+ Mbps)
Top-tier security (Double VPN, Onion over VPN, Threat Protection)
The best streaming support (unblocks Netflix, Hulu, Disney+ without issues)
Low-latency gaming (DDoS protection, Meshnet for private networks)
24/7 live chat support for instant help

NordVPN is the best choice for most users, offering a balance of affordability, features, and ease of use.

Best for Privacy – ProtonVPN

ProtonVPN is the best option for those who prioritize privacy above all else. It is built by the team behind ProtonMail, operates from Switzerland, and offers Secure Core multi-hop servers for maximum anonymity. However, its higher price and slower customer support make it less beginner-friendly than NordVPN.

Best for LAN Gaming – Radmin VPN

If your goal is LAN gaming with friends, Radmin VPN is the perfect free solution. However, it is not a real VPN for general online privacy, streaming, or security.

Final Recommendation

For Most Users: NordVPN
For Privacy Enthusiasts: ProtonVPN
For LAN Gaming Only: Radmin VPN

With this comprehensive comparison, you can confidently choose the best VPN for your specific needs.

Brian Jones

Brian Jones has been writing and editing at Freeze Wall for over two years, where he has covered everything from E3 to self-driving cars to rocket launches, and everything in between. He previously spent time at the Gadgets 360, Mashable and Tech Radar, earning a Masters degree in communications from the New Jersey Institute of Technology along the way. When not working on his next piece, you might find Brian traveling the world in search of the weird and wonderful. Failing that, he’ll probably be napping.